Anyone who’s been writing for a while knows that the experience of reading changes as a writer. I’ve found several writing memes talking about this very thing, because it’s so completely true. Don’t you love seeing a writing quote or meme that makes you think ‘wow, it’s not just me’? For example (one of my favorites):

Credit to @bbadwolfink for this amazing portrayal of a writer reading. It basically describes my life.

Recently I posted a book review for ‘To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before’ by Jenny Han. I’m currently reading the sequel, ‘P.S. I Still Love You,’ and I’ve realized that I can’t work on any writing projects when I’m in the middle of a good book. Not because I want to read 24/7 until the book is finished, but because I start to emulate the writer’s style and even some plot stuff slips into my work. I’m not saying you can’t read and work on writing at the same time, just that it’s difficult for me.

I also find that when I’ve recently read a YA (or am in the middle of reading one) that’s the genre I want to write. If I have a writing project I really want to get into, I try to read in that genre (not just YA, of course… that was just an example). Not only will it give me inspiration and help me to stay in that creative circle, but it will help me to see what’s popular in that genre.

One book that I recommend reading no matter what genre you’re writing is ‘Edit Your Novel’ by Stephanie Morrill and Jill Williamson.

I got this book for Christmas from my great uncle and aunt (a big thanks to you two!) and my knowledge of writing has grown so much. It was extremely helpful, even though I was only in the writing stage and not the editing. It covers not only minor edits (grammar, for example) but character building, world building, plot, finding an agent, traditional and self-publishing, and having a writing career.

This is probably the most helpful book I’ve ever read, and I know I already said this but I strongly recommend it as a writer.

That’s all for today, but make sure to check back soon. Look below for some fun writing memes I found on Pinterest!

Until next time,